China on Friday called for improving the work of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) at a high-level discussion in Geneva, Switzerland, which was held to mark the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the intergovernmental body within the United Nations system.
Jia Guide, China's permanent representative to the UN Office at Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland, said to strengthen and improve the work of the UNHRC, it is necessary to uphold sovereign equality, abide by international rule of law, and adhere to the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity, non-selectivity, and constructive dialogue and cooperation, while opposing the politicization of human rights issues.
Jia said it is also essential to advocate a people-centered approach, practice multilateralism, promote a balanced advancement of civil and political rights as well as economic, social and cultural rights, and place the right to development in a prominent position on the multilateral human rights agenda.
In addition, efforts made by the UNHRC should be action-oriented, and the UNHRC should promote universal benefits and equity and increase investment in capacity-building and technical assistance based on the consent of the countries concerned, Jia said.
Jia emphasized that civilizations are diverse, and that the path of human rights development independently chosen by each country should be respected.
He said China attaches great importance to the promotion and protection of human rights, and stands ready to work with all countries to advance the healthy development of the international human rights cause and build a community with a shared future for mankind.
China calls for improving human rights governance at UN high-level discussion
China calls for improving human rights governance at UN high-level discussion
The Ngong Shuen Chau barracks of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) garrison in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) welcomed nearly 9,000 visitors on the open day on Saturday to mark the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland and the 29th anniversary of PLA's deployment in the special administrative region.
The open day event kicked off at around 10:00 on Saturday with a flag-raising ceremony and will continue for two days.
"I was deeply moved and excited when I saw the national flag being raised. It's such a joy to witness the prosperity of our motherland and the stability of Hong Kong in this great era," said a local resident.
Visitors were treated to a series of military demonstrations by the garrison troops, including marching band performances, hand-to-hand combat, bayonet drills, and hunter-style combat maneuvers.
After the performances, local residents flocked to the weapons and equipment display area for a closer look and hands-on experience.
"The drone rescue performance we just saw was amazing, and we were impressed. The PLA soldiers are so courageous. We feel safe in Hong Kong with them around, and we really appreciate all their hard work and sacrifice," said a local resident.
A number of local residents, including families with children, also visited themed exhibitions at PLA Hong Kong Garrison Exhibition Center, which tell the story of the Party, the military, and the nation's journey. The troops staged a flash mob to bring the military and civilians closer.
"This is my fourth visit to the PLA garrison barracks, and each time I come away with something new. I can feel the warmth and welcome from the soldiers, as well as their absolute confidence and capability to protect Hong Kong," said a local resident.
The PLA Garrison will also open its barracks at Shek Kong and San Wai to the public on June 27 and June 28 as part of its efforts to strengthen ties with Hong Kong society, showcase its professionalism, and promote patriotism.
Since 1997, the garrison has held 36 open day events, with more than 950,000 local residents attending over the years.
Open day at PLA garrison stirs national pride among Hong Kong residents
